Airbus reduces supply chain and maintenance efforts with RFID

"Smart technologies like RFID can help us connect to our aircraft parts, and help create the Internet of Things for Airbus. This is where Fujitsu is helping us."

Carlo K. Nizam,
Head of Value Chain Visibility and RFID, Airbus S.A.S

The customer

Airbus S.A.S (Airbus) is a division of Airbus Group SE (formerly European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company NV) that manufactures civil aircraft. It is based in Blagnac, France, a suburb of Toulouse with production and manufacturing facilities mainly in France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. Airbus has approximately 55,000 direct employees worldwide and has subsidiaries in the United States, China, Japan, India and Middle East.

The challenge

Airbus S.A.S is becoming increasingly reliant on data in an already complex and expensive industry. Paper-based processes of handling this data are only adding to the complexity of day-to-day operations, and with further growth of the number of traceable parts predicted to more than double by 2017, the company faces a steep climb to ensure that data is managed effectively and an efficient supply line is maintained.

The solution

Airbus S.A.S began digitizing its operations and introduced radio-frequency identification technology (RFID) across the full lifecycle of its operations. This required strict criteria to be met, and Fujitsu successfully qualified in all areas. The technology enables a wide range of information, from part numbers to maintenance history, to be electronically and digitally attached to individual aircraft components.

The benefit

Provides real-time automated visibility

Streamlines manufacturing processes

Reduces time spent entering data into systems from hours to minutes

Vastly improves efficiency of on-site work

Eliminates manual data-entry errors

Increases time that aircraft can spend in the air

Shortens lead times for parts supply and eliminates duplication in procurement

Fewer problems and errors in assembly process due to better quality of data